‘Nearly half of young gay people contemplate suicide’ as charity reveals mental health crisis is looming

Stock picture: A generation of young LGBT people are ‘facing a mental health crisis’ (Picture: Alamy)

Almost half of young gay people have contemplated suicide over their sexuality and 50 per cent have suffered with mental health issues, a charity has claimed.

A new report due to be published tomorrow will warn that a generation of lesbian, gay and transgender people are facing a mental health crisis prompting concerns that schools and health services are failing gay teenagers.

The Youth Chances project, England’s largest social study into the lives of young LGBT people, will warn that schools neglecting the issues affecting gay teenagers contribute to a climate of fear and hostility.

Led by the charity Metro, the project questioned more than 7,000 young LGBT people between the ages of 16 and 25.

The project found that 50 per cent of those questioned had self-harmed and 42 per cent had sought medical help for anxiety or depression. Findings also revealed one in five LGBT pupils claimed they were physically attacked at school.

Just 25 per cent of young LBGT pupils said schools had taught them about safe sex with a same sex partner.

Dr Greg Ussher, Metro’s acting chief executive, said: ‘The clear message is that they are badly served. What they want most is emotional support and they are not getting it.

‘By the age of 13 most are already sure or are questioning their sexuality or gender identity, so we need to ensure all families and schools are equipped to give that support.’

He added: ‘We must acknowledge we are facing a crisis. Schools have a key role to play in providing inclusive environments for all young people with zero tolerance of bullying and discrimination and by eliminating the fear of it through education and support.’

For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 08457 90 90 90 or visit a local Samaritans branch.